What’s Wrong with My Brakes?

Your brakes are one of the most important systems your vehicle calls upon. Whether you use your car as a convenient family runaround or clock up countless miles with business use, your braking system should give you the means to take on journeys long and short in the utmost safety. When issues with your brakes become apparent however, diagnosing the problem and getting it fixed so you can return to the road is easier said than done.

As a leading provider of automotive services, we specialise in all areas of vehicle maintenance, including car servicing, MOT testing and vehicle repairs. Our expertise in brake repair and replacement is second to none, and during our time within the industry we have encountered and resolved many problems. Here we take a closer look at the most common brake FAQs so you can find the solution you need to keep your car, van, motorhome or entire fleet on track.

Are your brakes heavily corroded?

Corrosion is particularly common in braking systems, especially in those consisting of cast iron components. However the action of braking and the force created is usually enough to dust away any surface rust that has formed. Corrosion can result in surface pitting, and whilst pitting will not weaken the brake disc, it may require attention if you tend not to use your vehicle very often and/or it is stored in a damp environment as the front and rear discs may become heavily oxidised.

Could wear and tear create major issues?

Like any vehicle component, over time wear and tear will have an impact on its quality and condition. The front discs of your vehicle are particularly vulnerable and as a result manufacturers have specific guidelines regarding a minimum thickness for brake discs, a figure that varies from vehicle to vehicle. If your brake discs have become too thin, disc replacement is recommended, and the pads should also be renewed simultaneously.

Do your brakes generate considerable heat?

Whilst some level of heat is expected with brake usage due to the friction needed to bring the vehicle to a halt, excessive, persistent and uneven heating and cooling is a cause for concern. The shape of your discs could actually be altered by uneven exposure to hot and cold air, a problem that will show itself as a judder when using the pedal to apply the brakes. If wear and tear is an issue also, your discs are more likely to become warped.